Discontent in Kyiv after government decision to suspend EU agreement

Following the Ukrainian government’s decision to suspend a landmark agreement with the European Union (EU) and instead focus on restoring ties with Russia, crowds gathered in Kyiv’s central square to protest.

The protesters chanted “Ukraine is Europe” and waved both Ukrainian and EU flags. Over 1000 people came to the main square to show their support for European integration.

The crowd marched up to the President’s Administration but were blocked by bus-loads of riot police.

One unidentified member of the crowd said:

“We want the same level of life as the EU’s, the same protection of human rights, respect towards people. In fact it’s a historical moment, because about what direction Ukraine takes for the future, for many years ahead – it’s now that is being decided. And it’s very important, because if it’s not Europe, it’s Russia, Unfortunately, we can’t stay somewhere in the middle.”